The story of the Europeans who came to be known as Mennonites is unique: passionate, violent, hard, heart breaking yet with a seam running through it like gold in a rock face – of determined faith, practical kindness, goodwill and steadfast hope. Many Mennonites trace their roots to Holland, Prussia and Russia in the centuries past and in recent times to Mexico and South America en route to settling in the US and Canada. Here were a people, hardworking and humble who laid their lives on the line for their faith but as a group were committed to Pacifism. Many lived as displaced people for most of their lifetimes.

The group is pervaded with a strong conviction that an understanding of Christian faith should lead to practical works of helpfulness. As Mennonites settled in the Greater Vancouver area in the fifties and sixties, the Mennonite Senior Citizens Society of British Columbia noted the growing need of its aging Members. Many could not afford to buy their own homes. With the input of members of several Mennonite Churches in Greater Vancouver, Menno Court was built in Vancouver in 1974 in response for this need for housing. Many who lived there were widows whose husbands had disappeared forever during times of persecution in Europe or during times of war.

As the needs of these clients of Menno Court and other places began to change over time, it became clear that an additional place was needed where the elderly could receive more extensive care. Land was purchased in Richmond and government approval sought to establish a Care Home. Eventually the plans were drawn up for the Mennonite Intermediate Care Home Society of Richmond. In June 1983 the 75 bed facility we now know as Pinegrove Place, opened its doors.

In the spirit of Christian hospitality all are welcome here, regardless of background and belief. Pinegrove Place has been working in conjunction with Vancouver Coastal Health since 1983.